Rath Yatra Commences in Odisha with Joyful Chants of Jai Jagannath

The world-renowned Rath Yatra commenced in Puri on Sunday with great fervor, as the revered triad - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra - were ceremoniously placed on their respective chariots amidst resounding chants of "Jai Jagannath".

During the Phandi ritual, the deities were reverently escorted from the temple to their designated chariots. According to tradition, the celestial Sudarshan Chakra of Lord Krishna was first placed in Goddess Subhadra's chariot, followed by Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and finally Lord Jagannath.

Following the rituals, Puri Gajapti Maharaj DibyaSingh Deb offered prayers to the deities and symbolically swept the chariots with a golden broom.

Subsequently, devotees enthusiastically pulled the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra - named 'Nandighosh', 'Taladhwaja', and 'Darpadalan' respectively - on their journey to Gundicha temple, located approximately 3km from the main temple.

The holy city of Puri witnessed a sea of devotees who gathered to catch a glimpse of the divine siblings, chanting sacred hymns like 'Jai Jagannath' and 'Hari Bol' with profound devotion, often dancing in joyous celebration.

Several dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi were present in Puri to witness this auspicious chariot festival.

Elaborate security and traffic arrangements were implemented by the Odisha Police to ensure the smooth conduct of the grand annual event. Pinak Mishra, the District Superintendent of Police in Puri, highlighted the deployment of specialized teams for crowd management, traffic control, and security, with special provisions made in light of President Murmu's visit.

This year's Rath Yatra holds special significance as it coincides with Netra Utsav, Nabajoubana Darshan, and Rath Yatra falling on the same day for the first time in 53 years. Earlier in the day, President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and CM Majhi extended their heartfelt wishes to the people on this auspicious occasion.